power as a share of AI data center operating cost; the largest single opex line at scale
~25–65%observed
| Value kind | observed — Reported measurements, counts, and specifications keep the precision and scope stated by their source; an exact specification is not treated as a range. |
|---|---|
| As of | 2026-08-26 |
| Source | Epoch AI 1 GW TCO model |
| Derivation | Epoch's May-2026 1-GW US hyperscaler model puts energy at $594M of $907M annual cash opex (~65%) — the top of the band; lower shares reflect facility type, market, PPA terms, and lifetime-opex accounting. |
| Review | checking…review by 2026-09-23 · fast cadence |
| Recorded changes | last 2026-08-26 · 3 revisions tracked |
| Claim id | power-as-a-share-of-ai-data-center-operating |
Where the guide uses it
Not quoted in a chapter yet; it is kept in the curated register.
← Full numbers register — every date-stamped figure in the guide, with revision history.